Valentines Breakfast Chocolate French Toast

Name: Valentines Breakfast Chocolate French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 slices of thick bread (preferably brioche or challah); 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Butter for frying; Fresh strawberries, for serving; Powdered sugar, for dusting

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Collection

I’m always on the lookout for delicious ways to surprise my loved ones, and this Valentines Breakfast Chocolate French Toast has quickly become a special morning treat in our home. With a rich chocolatey flavor and a delightful hint of sweetness, it’s perfect for a romantic breakfast in bed. The crispy edges combined with a soft, gooey center create an irresistible experience that sets the tone for a day filled with love. Join me in making this indulgent breakfast that will definitely impress!

Created by

Elspeth Murray

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:01:35.231Z

When I first attempted making this chocolate French toast, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple it was to elevate a classic recipe. I used day-old bread, which soaked up the chocolate mixture beautifully without becoming too soggy. The key is to let it sit for just enough time to absorb the flavors, but not long enough to fall apart.

Pairing it with fresh strawberries and a dusting of powdered sugar not only adds a pop of color but also balances the richness of the chocolate. The flavors blend together wonderfully, making this dish the perfect start to a special day.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Decadent chocolate flavor that will wow your loved one
Extra crispy edges create an addictive texture
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings

The Importance of Quality Bread

Choosing the right bread is essential for achieving the perfect texture in your chocolate French toast. Thick slices of brioche or challah absorb the chocolate mixture beautifully, creating a soft, custardy center. Their rich flavors also enhance the overall taste of the dish. If you can't find brioche or challah, a high-quality French bread or sourdough can work in a pinch, but aim for bread that is at least one inch thick to ensure it holds up during soaking and cooking.

Another tip is to slightly stale your bread before soaking it in the chocolate mixture. Slightly drying out the bread allows it to absorb the egg and milk mixture more effectively without becoming overly soggy. Simply let the slices sit out for a few hours or toast them lightly in the oven for 5-10 minutes at 300°F. This small step can make a significant difference in the overall texture.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

When cooking the French toast, a non-stick skillet is your best friend. It ensures that the bread won't stick and makes flipping a breeze. Preheat the skillet over medium heat, allowing it to get hot enough so that the butter melts and bubbles but doesn’t burn. You’re aiming for a golden brown color on the edges, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes per side. If the toast is browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to allow the inside to cook without the outside becoming too dark.

It’s crucial not to overcrowd the skillet. Cooking in batches allows each slice to cook evenly and get adequately crispy. If you’re making multiple servings, consider placing cooked slices in a warm oven (set at 200°F) on a baking sheet. This keeps them warm and ready to serve without getting soggy while you finish cooking the rest.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start for a smoother cooking process!

Ingredients

4 slices of thick bread (preferably brioche or challah)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup cocoa powder
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
Butter for frying
Fresh strawberries, for serving
Powdered sugar, for dusting

Make sure to keep the toppings ready while you cook!

Instructions

Let’s get cooking!

Prepare the Chocolate Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.

Soak the Bread

Dip each slice of bread into the chocolate mixture, allowing it to soak for about 30 seconds on each side.

Cook the French Toast

In a skillet over medium heat, melt a small amount of butter. Once hot, cook the soaked bread slices for 3-4 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.

Serve Immediately

Plate the chocolate French toast, top with fresh strawberries, and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy your delicious breakfast with someone special!

Pro Tips

For an extra indulgent touch, serve with whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top.

Flavor Enhancements

While the chocolate flavor is the star of this dish, there are plenty of ways to elevate it even further. Think about adding a dash of espresso powder to the batter for an intensified chocolate taste or incorporating a teaspoon of cinnamon for warmth. If you prefer to switch things up, swap out the cocoa powder for a flavored chocolate syrup, which not only enhances the chocolate profile but can add an element of sweetness as well.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings beyond fresh strawberries. Ripe bananas, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce can add richness and a contrasting flavor to complement the chocolate base. A sprinkle of nuts such as chopped hazelnuts or almonds can also introduce a satisfying crunch and assist in creating layers in texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Options

If you’re planning a special breakfast in advance, you can prepare the chocolate mixture the night before. Store it in the refrigerator, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. However, for the freshest results, I recommend waiting to soak the bread until you’re ready to cook it. You can also prep the bread by slicing it the night before and leaving it uncovered to dry slightly, which can speed up the morning cooking time.

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a toaster or warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until heated through and crispy again. This way, you don't miss out on the crispy edges and melty center—that's what makes this breakfast so special!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster or skillet.

→ Can I add other flavors to the mixture?

Absolutely! Feel free to add a splash of espresso or a spoonful of almond extract for a flavor twist.

→ What kind of bread works best?

Thick, day-old bread works best, but you can also use gluten-free bread if needed.